Now Commenting On:

Hamels left frustrated after latest start

Hamels left frustrated after latest start

CLEARWATER, Fla. -- Phillies left-hander Cole Hamels was frustrated with himself following Thursday's start against the Minnesota Twins at Bright House Field.

He allowed nine hits, six runs and two home runs in 6 2/3 innings. He struck out seven.

Hamels has a 6.75 ERA this spring, but he has never been a great Spring Training performer.

"A few times I didn't throw pitches with any conviction," Hamels said. "I had two different pitches I could have thrown, and just agreed on one half-heartedly. I didn't really go out there and give everything I had. I have to focus on whatever pitch is called or I believe in, and go with it 100 percent.

"I should be a lot smarter, or at least more prepared, right now. I don't think I was."

Hamels will face the Pittsburgh Pirates on Tuesday in an exhibition game at Citizens Bank Park. He is scheduled to make his 2011 regular-season debut April 5 against the New York Mets.

"I don't know if I really accomplished much," Hamels said of his spring. "Physically, I feel strong. I still have a few things I have to work out. It better be sooner than later. I want to compete at the highest level. To do that you have to work hard and give everything you have. This is kind of one of those gut checks."